Post on 19-Jul-2020
N
Guidelines for:
The Management of Turfgrass Disease
on NZ Cricket Blocks
NZ Cricket
2016
Guidelines for the Management of Turfgrass Disease on New Zealand Cricket Blocks Page | 2 ©Sports Surface Design & Management 2016v.1
Contents
1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................... 3
2. MAJOR TURFGRASS DISEASES AFFECTING NEW ZEALAND ............................................................. 4
3. PREVENTATIVE STRATEGIES .......................................................................................................... 18
3.1 The disease cycle ................................................................................................................... 18
3.2 Contributing factors of turfgrass disease .............................................................................. 20
4. TURF DISORDERS ........................................................................................................................... 21
5. CURRENT CHEMICAL OPTIONS FOR TURFGRASS DISEASE ............................................................ 24
LIMITATION AND COPYRIGHT
Limitation: This document has been produced by Sports Surface Design & Management (SSDM) solely for New Zealand
Cricket in good faith with a view to providing a set of recognised ‘Guidelines’ focussed upon the control and
management of turfgrass diseases in New Zealand cricket blocks. Sports Surface Design & Management accepts no
liability or responsibility whatsoever in respect of any use or application of the information and recommendations
contained in this report by any third party.
Copyright: The contents of this report remain copyright to Sports Surface Design & Management who request that no
part of this document be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form to any third party without
prior written permission.
CONTACT DETAILS
Sports Surface Design & Management
Postal address: PO Box 33-127, Takapuna, Auckland, 0740
Physical address: 64 Porana Road, Hillcrest Auckland 0627
Website: www.ssdm.co.nz
Contact: Will Bowden, Sports Turf Consultant
T 09 442 0275, M 021 475 941
E will.bowden@ssdm.co.nz
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1. Introduction
Cricket Turf Managers across New Zealand are faced with a number of significant challenges with
regards to the preparation and management of natural turf cricket blocks (at all levels). One of the
most significant issues faced by managers is that of controlling and minimising the occurrence and
severity of various turfgrass diseases. This challenge tends to be site specific and on a region-by-
region basis, with a variety of climatic, geographical and resource factors contributing to the
complexity of each scenario.
This ‘Guidelines Document’ has been produced by Sports Surface Design & Management (SSDM) in
synergy with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) in order to provide the New Zealand Turf Manager with a
resource for future reference, based upon the best practice guidelines and most recent research
regarding turfgrass disease management on cricket clays.
The information provided within this document is designed to be used in conjunction with latest
(updated) New Zealand Cricket guidelines and refers to the most recent international research and
findings relating to turfgrass disease management. Due to the nature of the topic recommendations
and best practice treatments are forever evolving and changing, SSDM recommends that in
conjunction with this document the Turf Manager proactively keeps up-to-date with latest research
and turfgrass disease control strategies in order to make the best decisions based upon independent
research and experiences.
To assist in this, the following links to independent sites and applications are recommended:
http://turfpath.com/ (excellent App for information regarding turfgrass diseases)
http://www.msuturfdiseases.net/id-tool/ (turfgrass disease tool)
http://www.stma.org/sites/stma/files/pdfs/Alan_Windham_-
_Microscopic_Identification_of_Turfgrass_Diseases_STMA.pdf (manual on turfgrass disease)
http://turfdiseaseid.ncsu.edu/ (turfgrass disease tool)
Note: The recommendations within this document have been independently written and do not
propose to direct the Turf Manager towards specific chemical products for the treatment of turfgrass
disease.
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2. Major Turfgrass Diseases Affecting New Zealand
Due to the geographical range of cricket venues across New Zealand, a number of environmental
factors need to be considered when establishing a site-specific turfgrass disease management
strategy.
Figure 1 (below) identifies the variances in terms of annual median rainfall and temperature on a
regional basis across New Zealand. Consideration of factors such as this data will influence the
prevalence and nature of turfgrass disease infestations and should form the foundation of future
management strategies.
Figure 1: Climatic variances across New Zealand (1981-2010) NIWA.
The term ‘Turfgrass disease’ refers primarily to a fungal, bacterial or viral (pathogen) infestation of
the turf plant which results in some level of visible plant injury. Depending upon the mode of action
of the pathogen the target area for treatment of the disease will vary i.e. Pythium sp. requires
targeting the base or crown of the turfgrass plant, Sclerotinia homoeocarpa (dollar spot) will require
targeting the leaf tissue of the plant and so on.
Contributing factors that may encourage or initiate a disease outbreak include:
Inappropriate chemical use/selection
Poor soil conditions (i.e. excessive compaction, poor drainage pH etc.)
Plant injury (i.e. scalping, tearing or fertiliser burn)
Nutrient deficiencies
Drought
Wear
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Where any number of these (and other) factors exist then disease occurrence will tend to form ‘patterns’ i.e. at certain times of each year and as
environmental conditions allow then specific turfgrass disease pathogens will become more active. In such instances chemical treatment will serve to
offer a level of superficial treatment of the issue but investigations should take place in order to identify (and remedy) the deeper cause of the
problem. More often than not repeatedly occurring turfgrass disease issues provide the Turf Manager with a ‘bio-indication’ of a deeper unresolved
problem that needs investigation.
The information in Table 1. is designed to form part of a quick reference guide for the cricket Turf Manager when it comes to identifying the key
factors associated with each (major) turfgrass disease pathogen.
Table 1: Reference guide to major turfgrass disease affecting NZ cricket blocks.
Pathogen
(botanical &
common name)
Characteristic
(Fungal or
bacterial)
Favoured conditions
(turf species, time of year etc.)
Images
(surface, leaf and microscopic)
Recommended treatment plan(s)
leaf spot/melting
out diseases
(Bipolaris,
Drechslera,
Curvularia sp.)
Fungal All year round on all turfgrass species. Actively manage spore counts at key times of
year i.e. when covers will be most frequently
used and/or when leaf wetness is most likely
for periods of time >8 hours
Focus chemical treatment upon achieving
good contact with leaf tissue. Recommended
chemicals: Chlorothalonil & Mancozeb
(750g/kg) at 20 L/ha. Medium droplet size.
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Pythium sp. Fungal Primarily spring and early autumn (when temps are mid 20°c to
low 30°c).
Relies on leaf wetness to spread across surface of turf sward.
Disease widespread across all parts of New
Zealand, perhaps less prevalent in south
island due to generally lower humidity.
Maintain effective preventative fungicide
programme during the spring and summer
months when disease pressures are high.
‘Drench in’ systemic fungicides i.e.
Azoxystrobin and Propiconazole at 9L/ha. If
symptoms persist, alternate with Metalaxyl
Mefenoxam at 10L/ha, (in addition to
Mancozeb at 20L/ha).
Pythium sp. will sit ‘dormant’ within the soil
environment. SSDM recommends carrying
out a drenching application of Azoxystrobin
and Propiconazole (as above) in early spring,
mid-summer and again in early autumn.
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take-all patch
disease & take-all
root rot
(Gaeumannomyces
graminis sp.)
Fungal Most prevalent in autumn and winter months when the soil is
wet and the temps are around 10-15°c.
Gaeumannomyces graminis has been observed on couchgrass
and is associated with the complex; Ectotrophic root-infecting
fungi (ERI).
Particularly prevalent when soil microbiological diversity is low
or fungal dominated.
pH >6.5 will increase disease occurrence and severity
Check to ensure irrigation water is not at a high pH.
Soil-based fungal pathogen.
Optimise the efficacy of chemical treatment
by needle-tining prior to applying
Azoxystrobin and Propiconazole at 9L/ha.
Water (drench) in the above fungicide
application
Apply Manganese and a biological mix (i.e.
Superzyme and Trichoderma sp.) 10 days
following the application of fungicide.
During summer apply monthly applications of ‘Superzyme’ (or approved equivalent). Ideally the selected product will contain: Trichoderma harzianum, Pseudomonas putida and Bacillus subtilis. Apply at 1Kg/ha (this product should be tank mixed to existing feed programme) Note: These products will not cause any increase in the % organic matter of the clay.
Aim to stabilise the pH of the soil at < 6.5
Carry out a soil nutrient analysis to identify the existing level of available Manganese within the rootzone. Manganese levels should be maintained at > 10 me/100g if possible.
Consider incorporating an amendment of ‘Mycormax’ (or an approved equivalent) at time of seeding the block. Application rate: 40-50Kg/ha. This product should be appliedjust prior to seeding.
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fusarium patch
(Microdochium
nivale)
Fungal Cold wet weather and shaded conditions i.e. drizzly and
overcast for many days.
Temperatures consistently below 15°c.
Limited light and air flow.
Infestations will be most severe when plant has been overfed
(i.e. ‘soft growth’) and/or pH is too high.
Disease most likely to occur in south island
and inland locations. Relatively scarce from
Auckland north.
Treat curatively with applications of either
Chlorothalonil or Iprodione at an application
rate of 20L/ha.
Where fusarium is considered a chronic issue
SSDM recommends an early autumn
application of Chlorothalonil and Thiophanate
Methyl at an application rate of 20L/ha,
followed by applications of the appropriate
contact fungicide until environmental
conditions no longer favour disease activity.
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dollar spot
(Sclerotinia
homoeocarpa)
Fungal Prolonged leaf wetness and humidity (particularly at night).
Prevalent on ryegrass swards, especially if over-fed with
Nitrogen. Appearing initially as small (dollar-sized) tan spots and
often accompanied by cottony mycelium (spider web-like) that
enlarge, coalesce and form bleached areas of turfgrass loss.
Note: symptoms likely to be less obvious on cricket blocks.
Can remain active in NZ at a wide temperature range: 15°c to
30°c.
Most likely to occur in North island locations
(Central north island and northwards).
Turf Manager should aim to prevent an
infestation of dollar spot rather than apply
curative chemical treatments. In particular if
it is known the block will be regularly covered
for prolonged periods of time. Dew control
measures will be beneficial.
In early spring apply Azoxystrobin and
Propiconazole at 9L/ha. Every 3 weeks (or as
symptoms and/or environmental conditions
demand) continue to apply Mancozeb
(750g/kg) at a preventative rate of 20L/ha.
Maintain this programme until environmental
conditions no longer favour the disease
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spring dead spot
(Ophiosphaerella
korrae)
Fungal Spring dead spot (SDS) can occur on couchgrass cricket blocks
during early spring and persist throughout the summer until
dormancy. Although visual symptoms may appear reduced
during dormancy, the pathogen is soil-borne and if not
appropriately treated through the spring, summer and early
autumn will return the following year (in many cases increasing
in severity).
Due to the host species being couchgrass this
disease will be exclusive to couchgrass cricket
blocks.
Long-term strategy:
Upon positive identification of SDS:
1) Ensure any applications of Nitrogen are
made in advance of winter dormancy.
The couchgrass plant should not ‘take’
excessive Nitrogen into dormancy.
2) Make 2 x applications of Potassium
sulphate in the months prior to
dormancy. The application rate should
be: around 0.8Kg/100m² per application.
3) Carry out soil testing to ensure that a pH
of between 5.5-6.0 is targeted.
4) Apply autumn fungicide application of
Fenarimol at 1-1.5Kg/ha rate.
5) As soon as couchgrass comes out of
dormancy apply 3-4 weekly applications
of Propiconazole, Myclobutanil and
Fenarimol (as appropriate) throughout
the summer.
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Rhizoctonia sp. Fungal Rhizoctonia pathogens cover such “patch” diseases as: brown
patch, leaf spot and yellow patch. The pathogen is also
associated with other root-rot infections, damping off and leaf
blights.
The disease pathogen occurs primarily on ryegrass during
periods of warm and humid weather. Infected hyphae from
affected plants will contact the soil around the base of the
turfgrass crown and spread towards neighbouring turf plants
when environmental conditions are conducive.
Present throughout New Zealand (most likely
to occur central to north, north island).
The nature of cricket block preparation (i.e.
compaction and relatively high soil moisture)
provides an ideal environment for the
development of Rhizoctonia sp. Care should
be taken to avoid prolonged periods of ‘High’
soil moisture content (i.e. >60%) at times of
the year when humidity is highest or covers
are likely to be in place for extended periods
of time. Soil moisture will need to be
managed around emerging seedlings or
young turfgrass plants whilst avoiding seed
germination and high Nitrogen feeding during
periods of high humidity.
Chemical treatment: In New Zealand’s
temperate climate curative applications are
most commonly employed. Chemicals from
the following groups are effective:
carboxamides, benzimidazoles, carbamates,
dicarboximides, DMI fungicides, nitriles, and
QOIs.
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red thread and pink
patch
(Laetisaria
fuciformis and
Limonomyces
roseipellis)
Fungal Prevalent during periods of moist weather (usually cool
temperatures 18°c - 20°c). Generally most active around the
times of seasonal change (spring & autumn). Red thread in
particular can be associated with a low availability of Nitrogen
or Potassium. Turf Managers should be aware that autumn
applications of Nitrogen are not recommended to reduce red
thread persistence.
Present throughout New Zealand.
Maintain a ‘clean’ sward i.e. attempt to
remove majority of desiccated leaf tissue
accumulations around the base of the sward
– this is where Laetisaria fuciformis and
Limonomyces roseipellis spores will reside.
Chemical control only necessary in extreme
situations: Chlorothalonil at 20L/ha or
Azoxystrobin at 2.4L/ha can be used.
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bacterial wilt
(Xanthomonas
translucens)
Etiolation (ETS).
Bacterial First observed incidence of bacterial wilt on ryegrass in 2013
(USA). Prevalent in hot and humid weather conditions. Bacterial
wilt on Poa annua turf was recently identified by SSDM in
Auckland.
Symptoms range from desiccation and wilt of turfgrass plants to
etiolation of individual plants (the latter being most likely to
occur on cricket blocks)
Most likely in central to north, north Island.
Unlikely to be a significant issue for NZ cricket
Turf Managers.
Applications of Copper hydroxide (500 g/Kg
copper, as copper hydroxide) at the labelled
rate for use on fruit crops can be made to the
affected turf (each application should be
thoroughly watered in and carried out at a
time when heat and UV stress on the turf is
minimal i.e. early morning or late afternoon).
Three applications of Copper should be made
at 2 week intervals after which time an
evaluation can be made regarding the extent
of disease control.
Where etiolation is the main symptom: SSDM
recommends the Turf Manager carry out a
soil nutrient analysis to identify existing levels
of pH and available Calcium and Magnesium
as these can be contributing factors to leaf
etiolation if limited in availability.
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rust
(Puccinia spp.)
Fungal
Late summer to early autumn (especially in warmer/wetter
autumns).
Ryegrass is particularly susceptible to rust.
Present throughout New Zealand.
Generally symptoms shall not be severe
enough to require chemical treatment on a
cricket block. However, if symptoms do
require treatment an application of
Azoxystrobin at 2.4L/ha is recommended
(note: this will need to be followed up with
an application of Tebuconazole at 4L/ha if
environmental conditions continue for a
number of weeks following initial treatment).
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powdery mildew
(Erysiphe graminis
sp.)
Fungal Occurs primarily in autumn on areas of turf that struggle to
receive sufficient light and where turf canopy is dense.
Present throughout New Zealand.
If symptoms appear persistent and severe
enough to justify chemical application: Apply
Propiconazole at 4L/ha and if symptoms and
environmental conditions persist for several
weeks, follow up with an application of
Trifloxystrobin at 0.75L/ha (2-3 weeks later).
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anthracnose
(Colletotrichum
cereale sp.)
Fungal Low light, leaf wetness and low fertility are major contributors
to the occurrence of anthracnose.
Active in a broad temperature range: 15°c to 25°c.
Primarily a disease of Poa annua, anthracnose will also infest
ryegrass and couchgrass cricket blocks if conditions are
favourable.
Occurrence is widespread across New
Zealand regions due to broad temperature
range of activity.
Persistent disease that may be either basal
(rot) or plant (blight) based. Depending upon
the nature of the infection the best course of
treatment may involve spiking and drenching
with a broad spectrum fungicide or a leaf
application.
If applying fungicides preventatively (i.e.
before any symptoms have been observed)
then a foliar application will be appropriate. A
suitable product is: Chlorothalonil (20 L/ha),
Mancozeb (20 L/ha) or Propiconazole (5L/ha).
Where a curative programme is being
established then systemic fungicides are
required i.e. products containing:
Chlorothalonil, Propiconazole and Fludioxinil
at an application rate of 18L/ha.
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Slimes
(Cyanobacteria etc.)
Fungal Prolonged soil/surface wetness. Overcast and mild days in
particular early spring and late autumn when turfgrass growth is
slow and the sward coverage likely to be sparse.
High soil pH will increase the persistence of many slimes (i.e.
alkaline clays opposed to those that are more acidic).
Slimes can also be ‘artificially’ brought about as a result of high
NPK fertilisers being applied inappropriately.
Chemical treatment: Apply Mancozeb and
Chlorothalonil every 10 to 14 days leading up
to and during periods of humid, moist
weather.
Application rates:
Mancozeb = 200ml/100 m²
Chlorothalonil = 300ml/100m²
Note: if weather is conducive to slimes and
algae development, these applications will
need to be followed up within 1-2 weeks and
repeated up to 3 times.
Control of an existing algae/slime issue may
also be gained from applying Iron Sulphate at
a rate of 80ml/100m²
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3. Preventative Strategies
In most cases the occurrence of turfgrass disease occurs at a point when environmental conditions
are conducive to infestation and is to some extent unavoidable. In these scenarios the onus is upon
the Turf Manager to have strategies in pace that control or limit the extent and severity of such
turfgrass disease infections.
In order that the Turf Manager is able to mitigate and minimise disease severity an appreciation of
the key factors that contribute to turfgrass disease infection is important. This Section identifies the
major factors that contribute to the plants susceptibility to pathogen infestation and consequently
the severity of disease infection.
3.1 The disease cycle
No single turfgrass disease pathogen acts in exactly the same way. The mode of action of fungal
pathogens will differ significantly from those of Bacterial and Viral; however a fundamental
awareness of the ‘typical’ disease cycle for turfgrass diseases is valuable for the Turf Manager to
understand.
Figure 2 illustrates the principle of a fungal pathogen lifecycle:
Figure 2: Turfgrass disease cycle- dollar spot
(Source: http://www.apsnet.org/edcenter/intropp/lessons/fungi/ascomycetes/pages/dollarspot.aspx0
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As highlighted in figure 2, prevention of serious disease infestation should be focussed upon reducing
the opportunity for pathogen ‘stroma’ (spores) to enter the turfgrass plant. Primarily, entry to the
plant will be through some form of turfgrass injury or creation of an artificial environment conducive
to turfgrass disease.
Commonly opportunities for pathogen infestation will be caused as a result of:
Mowing turf with dull/blunt cutting units (figure 3).
Carrying out abrasive cultural practices such as topdressing and/or brushing when the
weather is too hot, too dry or plant is too wet (soft).
Excessive wear and tear on the turf. (i.e. poor machine operation or carrying out
maintenance tasks when ground conditions or environmental conditions are inappropriate
[too dry or too soft]).
Creating ‘artificial’ conditions around the turf (i.e. a humid micro-climate beneath covers).
Damaging the turfgrass plant with inappropriate applications of chemicals and/or fertilisers.
(i.e. avoid applying chemicals and fertilisers during periods of prolonged heat or leaf
wetness)
Fungal pathogens in particular are highly opportunistic and will rapidly infest a damaged turfgrass
plant. The extent of potential infestation will depend upon how the Turf Manager mitigates against
providing further opportunities for fungal pathogens to spread and cause serious harm.
Figure 3: Example of turfgrass mown with blunt cutting units.
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3.2 Contributing factors of turfgrass disease
Understanding how best to limit the opportunities for pathogen infestation of turf requires the Turf
Manager to have a basic understanding of the key factors that can work in association to effectively
create a ‘perfect storm’ for a severe turfgrass disease outbreak.
These key factors are described graphically in figure 4.
Figure 4: Key factors contributing to severe turfgrass disease infestations.
As illustrated in figure 4, where environmental conditions support pathogen occurrence and turfgrass
injury occurs through any of the opportunities identified in Section 3.1 a ‘perfect storm’ for turfgrass
disease infestation occurs.
Although many of the factors leading to turfgrass disease infection can be avoided through following
‘best practice’ management techniques and not adversely injuring or compromising the integrity of
the turfgrass plant, there are occasions when it is necessary to ensure a preventative chemical
programme is in place in order to limit the opportunities for turfgrass infection. Most commonly
these will be during preparations for match fixtures where covers may be required along with the
manipulation of soil moisture content.
In such circumstances the Turf Manager should aim to apply a preventative broad spectrum fungicide
(i.e. Azoxystrobin) a minimum of 2 days in advance of having to cover the pitch for prolonged periods
of time.
This application will be made in conjunction with a basic understanding of the key ‘cultural’ factors
that encourage disease infestation (as outlined within this Section of the guidelines).
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4. Turf Disorders
A range of turf ‘disorders’ that can mimic the visual symptoms of turfgrass disease include:
1. Chemical or Fertiliser burn:
Caused by a number of factors: leaking equipment, inappropriate application rates, applying
chemical at the wrong time of year/day, and not understanding the ‘burn potential’ of a particular
product etc.
Figure 5: Chemical burn on a golf green.
2. Chemical tracking through groundwater:
Some chemicals have a residual mode of action (i.e. the active ingredient remains active within the
soil profile for a number of days or weeks). When using such chemicals the Turf Manager should
ensure that a) weather conditions are appropriate for use of the particular product and b)
appropriate measures have been taken to limit the potential ‘tracking’ of the chemical through the
soil to wider areas of turf. This may be particularly relevant where managing multiple turfgrass blocks
of different species i.e. couchgrass and ryegrass. Where any risk of chemicals tracking through the
soil profile exists, the Turf Manager must ensure that soil moisture content is managed and no
rainfall or irrigation is likely to occur over the week (or so) following the chemical application.
Understanding the life of chemicals within the soil is very important. Most turfgrass chemicals will
have some form of “half-life” (the half-life of an herbicide in soil is the time it takes
for 50% of the chemical to degrade or break down within the soil) after which point the active
ingredient will be unlikely to have any adverse effects upon adjacent areas. By means of example,
Amitrole has a half-life in the soil of approximately 40 days, and MCPA may still be ‘active’ within the
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soil for up to 5 weeks. A further example (particularly relevant to use on couchgrass cricket pitches)
will be Simazine. This is a soil-based herbicide that remains active within the soil for long periods of
time; it is also liable to track through soil ground water/moisture and has the potential to damage
surrounding (non-target) areas.
When using chemicals that have a significant half-life within the soil it is important to apply these
when environmental conditions a favourable (i.e. no forecast rain) and also understanding that it
may be preferable to use less residual foliar-based alternatives.
3. Dull mower blades:
Figure 6: ‘Whitening of turf’ caused from mowing with a dull blade.
Mowing with a dull blade will effectively tear the turfgrass plant, leaving the tip of the plant torn and
desiccated. Not only does this create an opportunity for turfgrass disease infestation, but sometimes
the appearance of the sward can be so ‘off colour’ that the Turf Manager can assume the turf is
under attack from a disease pathogen. Where this has happened it is recommended to apply a
contact fungicide as soon as possible (avoiding the heat of the day if in summer). A broad spectrum
contact such as Dithane Rainshield (Mancozeb) at 20 L/ha is recommended.
5. Plant nutrient deficiency:
SSDM recommends that the Turf Manager submit representative samples of their soils for basic
nutrient analysis on an annual basis. This information will provide some objective measurements to
assist in the setting up of on-going fertiliser plans for the year ahead. The recommended Laboratory
in New Zealand to provide this service is: Hill laboratories, Hamilton (www.hill-laboratories.com/).
Interpretation of these results should be made by an independent turf agronomist.
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Figure 7 (below) provides an example of how a nutrient deficiency can often appear.
Figure 7: Nutrient deficiency of turf.
Carrying out an annual soil test will also identify whether your soil is deficient in any key nutrient
groups or whether there might be accumulations in potentially damaging factors such as Sodium or a
high pH etc. Without this background information sometimes the wrong diagnosis can be made
without successful resolution.
Where your facility may be connected to a private water source (i.e. not town supply) it may also be
worthwhile analysing the irrigation water every few years to ensure key criteria such as Sodium, pH
and Calcium etc. are in balance.
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5. Current Chemical Options for Turfgrass Disease
The efficacy of fungicides will depend greatly upon the methodology and calibration of use. It is recommended to identify the pH (ideally 6.5-7.0) of
your water source prior to mixing chemicals as in order to encourage efficacy a pH buffer solution may be required. Timing of applications is also
critical, i.e. early morning or late evening is generally the optimum times to apply fungicides. DMI fungicides should not be applied when weather
conditions are hot and/or dry as these can result in significant turfgrass injury.
Table 2: Inventory of the current chemicals available in New Zealand to manage fungal and bacterial turfgrass issues.
Active Ingredient Chemical group
(fungicides only)
Trade name
(Options
include but are
not limited to)
Chemical control Rate of
application
Comments: ‘Burn potential’ use on
seedling/establishing turf
Fungicides
Azoxystrobin
500g/L
QoI, Strobilurin Amistar Systemic
Broad spectrum
2.4L/ha Suitable for use as a seasonal ‘protectant’ i.e.
following renovation and during spring and autumn
transitions
Do not use on dollar spot as can worsen symptoms.
Medium – High risk of resistance. Do not apply more
than 6 applications of Azoxystrobin in any single year.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low
Azoxystrobin 62
g/L &
Propiconazole
104 g/L
DMI, Strobilurin Headway MAXX Systemic
Broad spectrum
9 L/ha As above (added cost implication of combined
product)
As with all DMI grouped fungicides, a high risk of
resistance exists. This can be managed by applying no
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more than 3 consecutive applications of DMI grouped
fungicides before changing and applying no more
than 5 applications of DMI grouped fungicides per
‘active turf growing season’.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low
Carbendazim
500g/L
Benzimidazole Prolific¹, Protek Broad spectrum 20L/ha¹ Not effective on diseases such as; Pythium, leaf
spot/damping off/melting out or take-all-patch.
Offers some control over worm casting.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low
Chlorothalonil
250g/L and
Thiophanate
Methyl 250g/L
DMI Tratek 5F Broad spectrum 15-20L/ha As above.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low (Note: DMI fungicides can have
a growth regulating effect during periods of hot
weather)
Chlorothalonil 362
g/L, Propiconazole
57 g/L & Fludioxinil
14.5g/L
DMI, Strobilurin Instrata Broad spectrum
systemic and
protectant
9-18L/ha As above.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low (Note: DMI fungicides can have
a growth regulating effect during periods of hot
weather)
Chlorothalonil
720g/L
DMI Cavalary, Bravo
WeatherStik
Broad spectrum
contact and
protectant
14-20L/ha Suitable for the majority of turfgrass diseases (apart
from Pythium and take-all-patch).
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low (Note: DMI fungicides can have
a growth regulating effect during periods of hot
weather)
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Cyproconazol
100g/L
Triazole Alto Broad spectrum
contact and
protectant
4L/ha Particularly effective on dollar spot
Do not tank mix with copper fungicides.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = High
Fosetyl-Aluminium
800g/Kg
Triazole Aliette Broad spectrum
contact and
protectant
20L/ha Primarily used when Pythium sp. is considered a high
risk.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Moderate
Iprodione 250g/L Dicarboximide Rovral Flo Contact and
Protectant
10-20L/ha Particularly effective on melting out diseases.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low
Mancozeb Dithiocarbamates Dithane
Rainshield,
Protectant 6-20L/ha Ensure leaf is well coated, this works well as an on-
going protectant against leaf spot and melting out
diseases (apply every 2-3 weeks during main growth
season).
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low
Metalaxyl
Mefenoxam
40g/Kg &
Mancozeb 640g/Kg
Benzimidazole Ridomil Gold Broad spectrum
systemic and
protectant
10-20L/ha Primarily used for control of Pythium sp. and root rot
Can be washed in (drenched) in order to increase
efficacy at the base/crown of the turf plant.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low
Prochloraz 450g/L DMI Mirage, Sportak Broad spectrum
systemic and
protectant
2-7L/ha Leaf spot control i.e. dollar spot, Bipolaris sp. and
fusarium.
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Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low (Note: DMI fungicides can have
a growth regulating effect during periods of hot
weather)
Propiconazole
250g/L
DMI Tilt, Aurora Broad spectrum
systemic and
protectant
2-10L/ha² ²Dependent upon target pest. Suitable for control of
dollar spot, leaf spots, fusarium etc. Can be watered
in for treatment of soil-borne pathogens.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low (Note: DMI fungicides can have
a growth regulating effect during periods of hot
weather)
Tebuconazole
500g/L
Triazole Axis Gold Broad spectrum
systemic and
protectant
2-6L/ha Particularly effective on anthracnose, when used in
conjunction with Propiconazole.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low
Thiram 400g/L DMI Thiram 40F Protectant 15-20L/ha
or
1L per pitch
when
breakout is
severe
Effective on dollar spot and when mixed with a
systemic fungicide.
Also used as a slime control on cricket blocks at
15L/ha.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low (Note: DMI fungicides can have
a growth regulating effect during periods of hot
weather)
Triadimenol
250g/L
Triazole Cereous Systemic and
protectant
3-6L/ha Control of powdery mildew and rust.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Moderate
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Trifloxystrobin
500g/L
Strobilurin Twist, Flint Broad spectrum
systemic and
protectant
0.3-
0.75L/ha
Control of powdery mildew, rust and leaf spot
disease.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Low
Fenarimol DMI Pyrimidine Rubigan Protectant See
Technical
rep.
Reduced likelihood of resistance (in comparison to
other DMI grouped fungicides). For control of dollar
spot.
Suggested in use with a surfactant.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Moderate (Note: DMI fungicides can
have a growth regulating effect during periods of hot
weather)
Phosphite NA Phoscare Biological
preventative
5L/ha Apply every 2 weeks during main growing season.
Thought to assist the turfs natural defence systems
against anthracnose and root rot fungi.
Safe for use during turfgrass establishment.
Burn potential = Moderate
Herbicides
Amitrole 400g/L Zelam Non-selective 16 ml/L Short life within soil (4-6 weeks) can be used to
‘cleanout’ areas prior to re-seeding in spring
Should not be used on seedling turfgrass
Burn potential = HIGH (particularly phytotoxic to
couch upon repeated application)
Picloram 100g/L &
Triclopyr 300g/L
Conquest,
Brushkiller
Selective
herbicide
2L/ha Broad selective, particularly good on Oxalis and will
assist in Poa annua control also.
Should not be used on seedling turfgrass.
Burn potential = Moderate (Triclopyr has HIGH burn
Guidelines for the Management of Turfgrass Disease on New Zealand Cricket Blocks Page | 29 ©Sports Surface Design & Management 2016v.1
potential on Poa annua and couchgrass)
Triclopyr 600g/L Grazon Selective
herbicide
2L/ha Good control of Hydrocotyle and Poa annua (not
advisable to apply to couchgrass).
Provides control of summer grasses in cool season
blocks.
Should not be used on seedling turfgrass.
Burn potential (See above)
Mecoprop 600g/L,
MCPA 150g/L &
Dicamba 18.7g/L
Trimec Selective (broad
spectrum)
herbicide
3L/ha Excellent control of a wide range of broadleaf weeds,
in particular good control on toad rush.
Should not be used on seedling turfgrass.
Burn potential = Low to Moderate
MCPA 750g/L Maestro Selective
herbicide
3L/ha Broad range of control, including starweed (will
require multiple applications).
Should not be used on seedling turfgrass.
Burn potential = Moderate
Ethofumesate Nortron Pre-emergent
herbicide
2L/ha Good all round control of weed species. Should be
applied at the time of seeding turfgrass.
Should be used at time of seeding turf as a pre-
emergent.
Burn potential = Moderate (best applied to
couchgrass swards during dormancy as a pre-
emergent to combat spring growth of Poa annua and
weeds).
Oxadiazon 380g/L Oracle Pre-emergent
herbicide
2L/ha Up to 6 weeks protection from pre-emergent weed
species. Note: product forms a ‘skin’ over the surface
of the soil and will lose efficacy if disturbed through
cultural practices during this time.
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Should not be used on seedling turfgrass.
Burn potential = Low
Propyzamide
500g/L
Kerb Selective
herbicide (for
couchgrass)
1.2L/ha Excellent control of weed species on couchgrass
surfaces.
Safe to use on seedling turf (2-leaf stage of growth)
Burn potential = Low (effective for control of
Paspalum in couchgrass)
Fenoxaprop-P-
Ethyl 69g/L
Puma Selective
herbicide
750ml/ha Best applied in springtime on ryegrass blocks for
control over broad leaf weds and invasive summer
grass.
Should not be used on seedling turfgrass.
Burn potential = Low (cool-season) Moderate to High
(warm-season) grasses.
Trifloxysulfuron
100g/L
Monument 100-
300ml/ha
Application rate will depend upon target species.
Trifloxysulfuron will control winter grass species in
the couchgrass cricket block as well as broad leaf
weeds. Applications should be made as plants are
actively growing, targeting stem and crown of
undesirable turfgrass plants.
Should not be used on seedling turfgrass.
Burn potential = Low
Wetting agents/dew control
Polyether 1020g/L Breakthru Gold Penetrant/surfact
ant
Varies 1) Initial early season application = 3L/ha
2) Bi-weekly applications (thereafter) =
800ml/ha
3) Dew suppressant = 3L/ha
Note: apply only in early evening or early morning
when dew is still present on the ground.
Oxirane- DewCure Surfactant 6L/ha Can last up to 1 week of dew control (ideal for ‘match
Guidelines for the Management of Turfgrass Disease on New Zealand Cricket Blocks Page | 31 ©Sports Surface Design & Management 2016v.1
methyloxirane
polymer
day’ situations).
Moss/algae control
Carfentrazone
240g/L
Smackdown Selective
herbicide
(additional moss-
control benefits)
500 ml/ha Important: This product is an accelerant and
therefore all equipment used to apply Carfentrazone
must be triple rinsed and thoroughly cleaned post
application.
Will require follow-up application within 14 days of
initial application.
Dichlorophen
432g/L
Mostox Selective biocide 500ml/L
Benzalkonium
chloride 500g/L
Surrender Algaecide 250ml/10L
Iron Sulphate Iron Sulphate 100g/ha in
600 L or
water
Apply 2-3 times during the autumn or early spring to
sliver moss and algae etc. The action of the Sulphate
Iron may also be enhanced by the addition of 200-
250ml of Acid (i.e. white vinegar) to every 5L of tank
mix.
Important Notes:
1. Where ‘Burn Potential’ is described as being ‘Low’ to ‘Moderate’ the product can be applied adhering to manufacturer’s guidelines and
GROWSAFE best practice, throughout the day. Where ‘Burn Potential’ has been described as ‘High’ the product should only be applied early
morning or later in the evening and may require some washing off the leaf.
2. DMI fungicides have the potential to stunt growth and act as a ‘growth retardant’ during periods of environmental stress i.e. heat or drought.
The use of DMIs should be carefully considered during such times.